Your trusted Customs Clearing Agency in Harwich
Harwich is a port town in Essex, England. Harwich's major ferry routes take passengers to Hook of Holland and Felixstowe.
To ensure that all goods entering or leaving the UK are declared to HM Revenue and Customs (HMRC), customs clearance is required. This includes specifying the type and quantity of goods being imported or exported, as well as their value.
Customs clearance is often a lengthy process, especially for businesses that frequently trade internationally. To make customs clearance more efficient at Harwich, check-in at Harwich is electronic, vehicles disembark from the ferry without visiting the customs office except for customs check. This center manages all declarations and payments for imports and exports passing through the port.
The customs clearance process is always a two-part process: an import declaration and an export declaration.
Importing into Harwich
In order to start the import clearance process, you must first declare everything to HMRC. This can be done by using the Customs Declaration Service (CDS) system electronically or through paper declarations.
The declaration—which must include minute details regarding the imported goods such as value, origin and destination— must be completed accurately. Incorrect information could lead to delays or penalties.
After the declaration is made, HMRC will give you a unique reference number. Always include this number on any paperwork relating to your imported goods, such as bills of lading or commercial invoices.
The next step is to pay any customs duties or taxes that are due on the imported goods. This can be done electronically using the CDS system.
Once you have paid, HMRC will give you a receipt which needs to be kept with any other documentation from your import transaction.
Exporting from Harwich
The first step to getting your export items cleared is to declare it to HMRC. This can be done by using the CDS system electronically or through paper declarations.
It is essential to be accurate when including the details of the goods being exported, such as their value, origin and destination. This declaration must also include information about any aspects that could result in delays or additional charges.
After you make your declaration to HMRC, you will be given a unique reference number. This needs to be included on any documents that relate to the exported goods, like bills of lading or commercial invoices.
The next step is to pay any customs duties or taxes that are owed on the exported goods. This can be done electronically using the CDS system.
After you have paid, HMRC will send a receipt that you must save with the other paperwork from the export.